Characterization of Separation Anxiety in dogs of Curitiba and Metropolitan Region, Paraná

Abstract

Separation anxiety (SA) is a syndrome observed in cats and dogs, with behaviors that manifest in the owner’s absence. Both the gravity of the clinical signs, and the fact that SA is the second most common behavioral problem in the United States, justify the need for adequate diagnosis and treatment. Also, behavioral problems are the main cause of relinquishment, making its prevention, diagnosis, and treatment a matter of animal welfare and public health. The purpose of this study was to characterize and comprehend SA in resident dogs of Curitiba/PR and Metropolitan Region, through an on-line questionnaire. The prevalence of SA found amongst 163 dogs was 25,7%, and the statistically significant behaviors (p<0,05) were: scratching of furniture/doors/windows (p=0,002), destruction of house objects (p=0,03) and house soiling (<0,001). The data represents an alert for Separation Anxiety in Brazilian dogs. It would be interesting for more research to be developed for both dogs and cats in Brazil, allowing better comprehension, prevention, and treatment of SA.